Helmet and seat belt violations top the list; awareness drives intensified across district
Gonda: Despite stringent provisions under the Motor Vehicles Act and continuous enforcement efforts, traffic violations continue unabated in Gonda district. In January 2026 alone, the Transport Department issued 1,012 challans against violators, generating revenue of approximately ₹19 lakh for the state exchequer.
According to Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) RC Bhartiya, the highest number of violations involved two-wheeler riders not wearing helmets. A total of 397 challans were issued for helmet violations, reflecting persistent negligence among motorists. Similarly, 161 four-wheeler drivers were penalised for not wearing seat belts, another major cause of serious injuries in road accidents.
The enforcement data further revealed that 91 drivers were fined for using mobile phones while driving, a practice that significantly increases the risk of collisions. In addition, 109 vehicles were challaned for operating without reflectors, particularly a concern for tractors and trolleys in rural areas. Authorities also issued 104 challans for overspeeding, 33 for driving on the wrong side of the road, and 111 for vehicles operating without proper number plates. Six drivers were booked for driving under the influence of alcohol.
ARTO RC Bhartiya noted that while the department continues to impose financial penalties to deter violators, behavioural change among motorists remains a challenge. “The objective is not merely to collect fines but to ensure road safety and reduce fatalities. Enforcement will continue strictly,” he said.
Regional Transport Officer (RTO) R K Saroj emphasized that road safety is a shared responsibility and urged citizens to adhere to traffic norms for their own protection. He added that the department is combining enforcement with sustained awareness initiatives to bring about long-term change.
District Magistrate Priyanka Niranjan has also directed officials to intensify monitoring and promote road safety education at the grassroots level. Under her guidance, several awareness campaigns were conducted throughout January.
The Transport Department, in collaboration with dealers’ associations, truck unions, and bus operators, distributed 100 helmets to drivers to encourage compliance with safety norms. Special drives were also carried out to install reflectors on tractor-trolleys, particularly in rural belts where night-time visibility is a major concern.
In addition, road safety awareness programmes were organised in villages and educational institutions. School students were sensitised about traffic rules and encouraged to act as ambassadors of road safety within their families. Officials believe that engaging young minds can help cultivate a culture of compliance over time.
Authorities have indicated that similar enforcement and awareness campaigns will continue in the coming months. While the ₹19 lakh revenue figure highlights the scale of violations, officials stress that the ultimate goal remains a significant reduction in accidents and road fatalities across Gonda district.
